Seven Tips to Naturally Beautiful Skin

Emily Kidson from Scienea* gives us the low down on how to look after our skin.

Saggy skin and wrinkles are not necessarily down to the inevitable process of ageing, but more to do with the way we treat our skin. Our skin is an organ, working to regulate temperature and acting as a shield against sunlight and air pollution. Skin is also sensitive, reacting when we aren’t eating well or are very tired and stressed and crying out for a boost of antioxidant nutrients, such as vitamin C and E.

Below are a few simple skincare tips to help your skin look fabulous and reduce the signs of ageing:

Skincare Tips

Slap on the sunscreen. Our skin absorbs sunlight, leading to inflammation and the beginnings of wrinkles, accelerating the ageing process. A good facial sunscreen or sun block will help prevent sun damage so apply even if it looks overcast. Skin can absorb the sun’s rays through glass too, so don’t think just because you’re in the car or bus you are protected.

Feed skin antioxidants. From helping build collagen and skin elasticity to protecting skin from pollutants, antioxidants can help prevent or delay cell damage. Eat plenty of vegetables such as Vitamin A-rich carrots and tomatoes as well as Vitamin C-rich citrus fruits, such as lemons and limes. All of these will help boost collagen production, the scaffolding that supports skin cells.

Keep skin hydrated. An obvious tip, but drinking at least two litres of water a day will help prevent dehydration, help skin cell formation and cleanse the body of toxins. A facial moisturiser applied twice a day will also help keep skin hydrated and instantly improve the look and feel of dry skin.

Stay away from cigarettes. Smoking can lead to more lines and wrinkles on your skin, as carbon monoxide cuts off peripheral circulation. In addition, nicotine reduces blood flow, leaving skin dry and discoloured. Smoking also deprives skin of many nutrients, including vitamin C, which helps protect and repair skin.

Get Some Fresh Air

Exercise to keep skin healthy. For beautiful skin, think of regular exercise as a beauty treatment. It helps skin renewal and promotes blood flow, helping to nourish blood cells and boost circulation. This, in turn, gives skin a healthy glow and a fresher, younger appearance. A good workout, a walk or a Pilates session can also help reduce stress and give you a good night’s sleep – all helping to keep skin looking good.

Take your make-up off. Skipping your skincare routine before bed can take its toll on your skin – drying out your skin, giving you spots, blocked and enlarged pores and making your eyelashes brittle. Also, you’ll be taking all the dirt from the day to bed with you. Particles from pollution, dust and smoke cling to your skin, helping it dry out further – a recipe for spots and irritated skin.